From pubic hair to weird smells, 6 “gross” things that are actually normal down there

It’s absolutely crazy how women are so prone to be critical of their bodies. Leave alone berating themselves for being too fat, too thin, too tall, too short and blah, blah, blah–we don’t even spare our precious lady bits.

So much so, that certain normal functions and aspects of our vagina can freak many of us out. But don’t worry. We are here to educate you. 

Here are six of those absolutely natural aspects, which do not need your attention or worry—just acceptance: 

1. Let’s start with your pubic hair
As much as we curse Mother Nature for giving us hair on the most sensitive parts of our body, we tend to forget the real purpose of the hair is to trap dirt and bacteria and keep them from entering the vagina.

However, thanks to porn, we just can’t wait to grab a razor and shave it all off or simply go for a bikini wax—only to make Ms. Vayjayjay more prone to infections. Trimming the bush is always a better deal. You get neat results without the pain. Not to mention, the protection that your pubic hair offers stays intact. Win, win, don’t you think?

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2. In all probability, your vaginal odour is normal
YOUR VAGINA HAS AN ODOUR. Period. And it’s natural for it to smell a little “off”, you know. And just like your eyes blinking and heart beating is an involuntary action, vaginal odour happens too. So don’t even think about using vaginal fragrances.

The maximum you can do is eat pineapple for a pleasant smell and avoid foods like avocados and garlic. While you’re at it, stay clear of douching, because all you’re going to do is get rid of the healthy bacteria that protects your vagina against infections.

That said, if it gets really stinky, you must see a gynaecologist because it could be due to an infection as well.

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3. Your labia isn’t meant to be picture perfect
If pornography dictates your choice of labelling your labia (a.k.a. the folds of your vagina) as overtly long, too dark, too short and so on–remember that the perfect labia doesn’t exist.

Every woman is unique and so are her private parts. So, stop berating yourself or getting convinced by harmful cosmetic treatments that promise to white wash your lady bits.

4. Getting wet is natural
And not just when you’re having sex or are turned on, but otherwise also. Vaginal discharge that resembles egg whites in colour and consistency is as natural as your eyes tearing up or your nose running when you catch the flu.

However, depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle you’re in, the colour, amount, and consistency of the discharge might vary. But, just in case, it is greenish or yellowish in colour and is accompanied by itching or fever, you must get yourself checked to rule out an infection.

5. And you’re also NOT going to get wet sometimes
If you need lubrication to enjoy penetrative sex, it doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. Like we said, vaginal discharge can be different in different phases of your menstrual cycle. And it is also affected by birth control pills. So, if you aren’t wet during the steamy session in bed, maybe you’re just done with your period or maybe it’s the birth control or a hormonal fluctuation. Relax! And use a lube to enjoy anyway.

6. You can smell like sex too
So, you just had sex and your vaginal odour got weirder, so what? Your vaginal discharge is acidic in nature while a man’s semen is alkaline. When the two react together, the chemical properties of the discharge might change and lead to a distinct smell too. Relax and continue your steamy session in bed and clean up when you’re done–for the sake of your intimate hygiene—not because you’re freaked out by the smell, okay?